Overview
- Ministers announced £820 million for measures designed to move young Universal Credit claimants off benefits and into work.
- Up to 350,000 people will receive sector-based training and work experience in construction, hospitality, and health and social care.
- Intensive employment support will be expanded, with up to 55,000 government-backed guaranteed jobs due to start in spring 2026.
- Claimants who refuse to engage with training or job offers without good reason could face reductions to their benefits.
- The package follows NEET numbers climbing to about 940,000 in two years, with Alan Milburn commissioned to review the trend and a national youth strategy expected next week.